Training

Addressing the Human Element

The Challenge

That new business initiative that’s taken months to get approved and implemented is nearing completion.  Now your company needs to ensure that the goals and objectives are embraced by all affected employees.

• How will you confirm that each department is able to correctly execute new business processes and use new tools to perform their respective jobs?
• How will you get the word out to all employees by creating the right messages, tailored to each affected team or department?
• How will you minimize resistance to the changes?
• How will you maximize employee learning while minimizing their time away from work?
• How will you deliver training to hundreds or thousands of employees and stay within budget?

The Apex Solution

When it comes to implementing a new business initiative, the human element cannot be underestimated. Proactive communications, effective change management, and just-in-time training will lead to the buy-in and success you need for your next business initiative. Apex’s proven methods and many years of experience will get you the results you expect.

The staff at Apex has worked with numerous clients facing these very issues.  We’ve found that:

• A communication plan must be created so that all affected employees are fully informed about the upcoming systems and business process changes.  The most effective change initiatives create a sense of urgency and motivate employees to take action.  Change management (or readiness) must be proactive and consistent from the earliest project stages.
• Next, the natural human resistance to change must be acknowledged and then mitigated.  An effective plan for managing the inevitable changes will help minimize resistance, generate buy-in from even the staunchest objectors, and generate excitement and positive “buzz.”  A proactive, honest dialog, accompanied by regular communications and a mechanism to quickly address all questions and concerns are some of the proven keys to success.
• Finally, a comprehensive training program must be designed that targets the specific performance objectives of each work team, and gives them the tools and skills they need when they need them.  Apex will work with you to recommend instructional content and effective delivery methods that will reach the maximum number of employees in ways that will be cost-effective, instructionally sound, and suited to your organizational culture and strategic objectives.

Apex Services

• Communications and Change Management Planning and Execution: Apex has worked with many clients to create communication and change management plans that are unique, effective, and targeted to your individual requirements.  The need to address the human element is fundamental to success.  Change resistance and lack of buy-in can decrease the effectiveness of even the best business initiatives.
• Custom Course Materials: Apex’s team of instructional designers and developers can customize any existing training materials and tailor them to the needs of specific work groups in order to get them the exact skills and knowledge they need to use the new technology.  We can also develop custom course materials from the ground up.
• Job Aids: Apex courseware developers will create Instant Reference Cards that provide just-in-time knowledge and skill steps for your staff.
• Process Mapping and Technical Writing: If process diagrams are required, or existing ones need to be updated, Apex has years of real-world experience.  Our technical writers are able to create process and procedure documentation to complement your new processes.
• Self-Paced E-Learning: Let Apex create scalable, on-demand e-learning content that can provide the skills and knowledge your employees need at a time and place convenient for them⎯delivered to their desktop.  We are adept in Adobe Captivate, Camtasia, and Silverlight Blend.
• Electronic Performance Support System: Using the industry-leading help authoring tool, RoboHelp™, Apex can create a searchable, indexed electronic training documentation and management system that resides on your intranet, and is accessible via any web browser.
• Classroom Training: Apex’s certified classroom trainers will bring your training events to life, using your instructional materials, or those we developed with you.
• Web-Based Distance Learning: Train your dispersed staff with live training events delivered over the web.  An Internet connection is all that is needed to scale your training program across the country, or around the world⎯with a live trainer, in real time.
• One-on-One Executive Training: Apex is able to create and deliver laser-precise training plans, materials, and customized instruction for your busy executives and their assistants.
• Go-Live Deskside Support: If you require additional support at Go-Live, let Apex’s instructors provide deskside support services.  Gain peace of mind knowing that training professionals who are well versed in your new technology are available to provide personalized, “Just-In-Time” deskside support to your staff.